Legal Question in Family Law in New Jersey

parents right to confiscate

I am 12 years old. I bought a handheld PC using my own money. Because I would not let my siblings use it, my parents confiscated it for a week. I believe that this is stealing and that they have no right to take it because it is my property. Is this a correct view?


Asked on 11/24/01, 2:13 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys

Robert Gleaner Robert A. Gleaner, P.C.

Re: parents right to confiscate

It is very frustrating being your age. You are getting older and more independent and feel that you have certain rights. On the other hand, you are still a minor living under your parents roof. Until you are out on your own, your parents have the right (and obligation) to do what they feel is appropriate. Whether you believe their actions are right or wrong, it is their house and their rules. Perhaps they do not understand your views on this issue. I can understand that when you buy something with your money, you believe it should be yours. On the other hand, your parents seem to believe that sharing is more important in this case. You need to sit down and have a long talk with your parents about your things and "shared" things. If you show the kind of maturity that they believe is appropriate, maybe they will give you more leeway with "your" things. Good luck!

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Answered on 11/26/01, 9:23 am


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